This cozy turmeric chicken soup is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. The bright yellow spice, turmeric, adds a warm kick, while tender chicken and veggies make it so comforting!
On a chilly day, nothing beats a big bowl of this soup. I love how easy it is to make, just toss everything in and let it simmer. Plus, it feels like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turmeric: This is the star ingredient! It’s what gives the soup its vibrant color and health benefits. If you can’t find fresh turmeric, don’t worry! Ground turmeric works well, too. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken, but rotisserie chicken is my favorite for its flavor and convenience. If you want a vegetarian version, feel free to replace it with chickpeas or tofu for protein.
Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps everything balanced and healthy. You can use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian soup. You can also make your own broth for a fresher taste!
Vegetables: Carrots and celery are classic choices, but you can easily swap in your favorites! Try adding spinach or kale for some greens. If you’re not a fan of cauliflower, just leave it out or use broccoli instead.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in This Soup?
Building flavor is key! Start by cooking the onions until they’re soft. This step adds a sweet base to your soup. Then, when you add garlic and ginger, cook until fragrant. Don’t skip the turmeric and black pepper; they make the soup not only tasty but also boost turmeric absorption.
- Heat your oil in the pot before adding onions to get them nice and golden.
- Make sure to stir in spices right after garlic and ginger—this releases their full flavor!
- Simmer your veggies until tender to get the best blend of taste.
These small steps will elevate your soup from simple to sensational. Enjoy your cooking!
Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets (optional for extra nutrients)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes to get this delicious soup from your kitchen to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil or coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This will build a wonderful base flavor for your soup!
2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Now it’s time to add some more flavor! Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 1 minute. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell their delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
3. Incorporate the Spices:
Add the ground turmeric and black pepper to the pot. Cook everything together for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly. This step releases the spices’ fantastic aromas and enhances their flavor.
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling happily, reduce the heat a touch to keep it simmering.
5. Toss in the Veggies:
It’s time to add your sliced carrots and celery, along with cauliflower if you’ve chosen to include it. Let everything simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until the veggies are tender, bringing color and nutrition to the soup.
6. Add the Chicken:
Ready for the next step? Add the cooked chicken pieces into the pot. Simmer together for another 5 minutes, just long enough to warm the chicken through and blend those flavors!
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, season the soup with salt to taste. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and lemon juice for a bright finish!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and enjoy the delightful flavors and health benefits. This soup is a nourishing and comforting option that’s easy to make and perfect for any day!
This nourishing turmeric chicken soup is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and black pepper, combined with hearty chicken and vegetables for a comforting and healthy meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have frozen chicken, just ensure it’s completely thawed before adding it to the soup. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, shred or chop it as the recipe directs.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare this soup in advance! Simply make the entire soup and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Customize the Vegetables in This Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add or swap in your favorite vegetables. Spinach, kale, or even bell peppers would be wonderful additions. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure everything is tender. Get creative with what you have on hand!
